One of New Zealand's biggest summer music festivals - Bay Dreams - will not go ahead in 2025 as promoters struggle to draw big artists into the country.
The organisers had hoped to book Kendrick Lamar as a headliner, but a successful 2024 for the rapper meant the costs to bring him here doubled.
Rhythm and Alps founder and director Alex Turnbull says many brands are putting themselves in a 'dangerous' position by relying too heavily on big names.
"There are so many more lines that contribute to a festival brand - such as the experience, that's a really key thing. Whether it's the biggest festival that's been cancelled, I'm really not sure."
LISTEN ABOVE

Nicola Willis: Finance Minister brushes off worries about fast track for housing projects
07:22

Mike Casey: Rewiring Aotearoa CEO on shortage of electricians as solar panel demand soars
05:12

Richard Harrison: Auckland Transport Public Transport Director on CRL first weekday, Warriors this weekend
02:55